Trio

After all the days spent toiling in the veg garden - from making compost to battling with weeds; watching, waiting and hoping that the plants make it through the winter; harvesting in my cycling gear (best not to ask) on a muddy wet day and then late nights spent polishing, prettifying and debating which bulbs to present I decided to go for a trio of Bella Italiano, a hardneck garlic, as my exhibit to the local show.

I've never shown any veg before and can't believe how ridiculously nervous and unreasonably excited I am about it all.

My friend and mentor, a veteran show competitor held my hand as we took our entries over. The tension in the hall was palpable. Very serious stuff. We were not allowed into the hall, just take the entries to the table barring the door where it's handed over without chat to those inside. We then watched them place them gently in the categories for judging whilst we tried to get a peek at the opposition. (Glad I hadn't put in a victoria sponge - boy did they look good)

Back tomorrow for the verdict. I have no expectations of winning, the competition is fierce but I was delighted to catch a glimpse of the chap who took my entry to the table having a good sniff of the garlic and nodding in appreciation.